Las Vegas Sun

May 14, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Is a race worth all this hassle?

Formula One is coming. Preparatory activity is reaching a crescendo.

Since the agreement to bring the race to Las Vegas was announced in March 2022, there has been a frenzy of planning to make it happen. Roads have been closed, traffic redirected, the landscape on the Strip has been altered, and workers have had to change their daily routines.

Millions of dollars have been spent. Lives have been disrupted. Authorities have committed to at least three years of racing.

Even though one county commissioner has admitted that “we just didn’t understand all of the ramifications,” the Clark County Commission approved a partnership with Formula One for the next decade, citing economic benefits.

Most residents will not attend the race. Many of us don’t want to be anywhere near the Strip while it is going on.

Officeholders owe the public a more complete explanation for why they have had to endure these inconveniences for months. Who made the decision to bring Formula One to Las Vegas and why? How will the race benefit the average citizen? Forget the platitudes. Give us real answers.